[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 40 (Wednesday, March 12, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E437]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      HONORING THE TOWN OF HAMPDEN

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                          HON. RICHARD E. NEAL

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 12, 2003

  Mr. NEAL of Massachusetts. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this 
opportunity to honor the 125th birthday of Hampden, Massachusetts, 
March 28, 2003.
  Hampden is located in the core of the 2nd district congressional 
district of Massachusetts. At the time of separation from Wilbraham in 
1878, industries were becoming active in Hampden. There is evidence 
that Hampden could have well turned into one of the many New England 
factories or industrial towns. However, it underwent an agricultural 
period that ultimately resulted in the establishment of Hampden as a 
residential town.
  Throughout the course of Hampden's history many key points have 
characterized the town and helped it to retain the essence of its 
founders. Elizabeth Sessions, a prominent founding member of Hampden, 
is part of a four-generation legacy. The Sessions resided in Hampden 
from 1790-1933, and provided the present day town hall that is utilized 
by the town of Hampden. Also, the parents and siblings of Foster 
Fiercely, the Governor of Massachusetts, resided in the town of Hampden 
and made it a point to invite the residents to his inauguration. 
Additionally, in the early industrial days of Hampden, Edwin Marcus 
Chaffee (1806-1872), invented the mill and calender, which are used in 
the processing of Rubber. Andrew Jackson Davis became a 
multimillionaire copper king in Montana, but was born in Hampden during 
its industrial era. Another famous name to come out of Hampden is 
Thornton W. Burgess, an author of a variety of children's books. 
Furthermore, his home and land became part of the Audubon Society to 
preserve the legacy for future generations.
  In celebration of the 125th birthday of Hampden, Massachusetts, the 
Hampden Historical Society is hosting a dual celebration. the March 28, 
2003 event is dedicated solely to the presentation of all Proclamations 
received and the original petitions presented from 1878. On Memorial 
Day, additional festivities are being held, which will consist of a 
parade and fan-style celebration. In closing, I would like to honor the 
169 people, who in 1877 set aside differences with neighboring towns to 
finally petition, and ultimately create, what is now known as the town 
of Hampden.

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